Meet the Staff
SOUTHERN LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

Jeff Carsten

Jeff Carsten is the photographer. Before opening Southern Light Photography in 1997, Jeff had a career in the corporate world, and also ran an ad agency with Gail. Now he is happily chasing little kids around the studio, making dogs smile and brides blush, getting corporate execs to relax, and living life to the fullest. He is addicted to daily jogging, music, and ice cream, and is madly in love with his wife, two kids, and four grandkids. In his spare time, he pursues his hobby —what else — fine art photography.

Email Jeff

Gail Carsten

Gail Carsten is the studio manager and resident baby wrangler. She is especially proud of her two children and four grandchildren, but loves people in general. She and Jeff were high school sweethearts in Chicago and have been married for over 40 years. She loves reading, movies, country music, and the color pink. Her favorite movie is Dirty Dancing.

Email Gail

Suzy

Suzy is the studio mascot. She loves anybody who pays attention to her. She was raised around children, and her job is to make people happy. She works for food.

Email Suzy

Jerri Nichols

Jerri Nichols is the Production Manager and Photoshop guru. Aside from being the best retoucher and printer in Charlotte, Jerri has a degree in photography and has been in the production side of photography for more than 15 years. She is an exceptional photographer, but it is her Photoshop magic that pays the bills.

Email Jerri

Becky Pesek

Becky Pesek is our marketing rep. She was raised in the Blue Ridge mountains, and growing up, her family used gravy as a beverage, and the phrase “bless your heart” would never be out of place. She married her high school honey and spent 5 years traveling with the US Navy. Her only child is a pomeranian named Snickers. If you ever need her attention, promise her Mexican food. :)

Email Becky